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Asahi Shimbun Sets AI Policy Prioritizing Human Oversight and On‑Site Reporting

The move answers mounting legal and ethical risks facing newsrooms that deploy generative systems.

Overview

  • Asahi published a formal statement on September 29 outlining its approach to AI as a supportive tool with final judgment and responsibility retained by people.
  • Direct interviews and on‑the‑ground reporting remain foundational, while AI‑assisted newsgathering is permitted only with factual verification and adherence to the Asahi Shimbun Reporter Code.
  • The policy commits to respecting human rights, complying with relevant laws, and creating internal guidelines aligned with existing corporate standards.
  • Asahi will establish risk‑response systems, pursue continual improvement, and respond quickly and appropriately to unexpected incidents linked to AI use.
  • The company pledges to explain AI development and use where feasible, train staff in required skills, cover AI’s societal challenges through reporting, and update its guidelines as technology and conditions evolve.